Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food that never fails to satisfy. But when we add Cheez-Its to the mix, it takes this classic dish to a whole new level. The crunchy, cheesy crackers bring an irresistible texture and bold flavor that perfectly complements the creamy pasta.
This Cheez It Mac and Cheese recipe is a fun twist that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines nostalgia with a modern crunch. Let’s dive into this cheesy, crispy delight that’s bound to become a new favorite in our recipe rotation.
Ingredients
To create the ultimate Cheez It Mac and Cheese, we use a blend of carefully selected ingredients that balance creaminess, sharp cheddar flavor, and that signature Cheez It crunch. Here’s everything you’ll need for this irresistible dish.
Macaroni Pasta
The base of our dish requires macaroni pasta that cooks to a perfect al dente texture:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- Use high-quality durum wheat pasta for the best bite and cream sauce absorption.
Cheez It Crackers
The star ingredient adds boldness and crunch to our recipe. We recommend:
- 1 1/2 cups Cheez It crackers, crushed
- Choose the original Cheez It variety for authentic sharp cheddar flavor.
- Crush them coarsely to maintain a crunchy texture in the topping.
Cheese Sauce Components
Our luscious cheese sauce is the heart of this recipe, blending creamy and sharp notes:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp Cheddar cheese | 2 cups shredded | Use freshly shredded for meltiness |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons | Unsalted for control over salt |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons | For thickening the sauce |
| Whole milk | 2 1/2 cups | Warmed for smooth incorporation |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Mild savory depth |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
Additional Flavorings and Toppings
To elevate our Cheez It Mac and Cheese, these ingredients add balance and extra crunch:
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika — adds a subtle smoky warmth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese — heightens cheesy complexity
- 1 cup crushed Cheez It crackers — reserved for topping to provide the iconic crispy finish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional) — for a touch of color and freshness
By using these ingredients in precise measures, we ensure each bite delivers the perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures that define our Cheez It Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Equipment Needed
To make our delicious Cheez It Mac and Cheese perfectly, we use specific tools that ensure every step is smooth and precise. Here’s the essential equipment to have on hand before we start cooking:
- Large Pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni. It needs to be roomy enough for pasta to cook evenly without sticking.
- Colander: To drain the cooked macaroni efficiently.
- Medium Saucepan: For making the creamy cheese sauce. A heavy-bottomed pan helps prevent burning when heating milk and cheese.
- Whisk: Vital for stirring the roux and gradually blending in milk to achieve a silky sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out all ingredients accurately—especially flour, milk, and seasonings.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine crushed Cheez It crackers with the final mac and cheese for added crunch.
- Baking Dish (Optional): If you prefer baked mac and cheese, a 9×13-inch casserole dish works well to layer and bake your creation.
- Oven Mitts: Safe handling of hot pots, pans, and baking dishes is a must.
- Cheese Grater: To shred sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese freshly for richer flavor and better melting.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil elbow macaroni |
| Colander | Drain cooked pasta |
| Medium Saucepan | Prepare cheese sauce |
| Whisk | Blend roux and milk smoothly |
| Measuring Tools | Measure flour, milk, seasonings precisely |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine crushed Cheez It crackers |
| Baking Dish | Bake mac and cheese (optional) |
| Oven Mitts | Safely handle hot cookware |
| Cheese Grater | Freshly shred cheddar and Parmesan |
Using these tools lets us craft a Cheez It Mac and Cheese that is creamy inside and loaded with that irresistible crunchy topping. Ensuring our equipment is ready helps us focus on flavor and texture, making this twist on comfort food truly memorable.
Prep Work
Before we dive into assembling our Cheez It Mac and Cheese, thorough prep work will set us up for smooth cooking and an outstandingly delicious dish. Let’s break down the essential steps.
Preparing the Macaroni
- Measure 2 cups of elbow macaroni precisely for the perfect pasta-to-cheese ratio.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook it for 7 to 8 minutes until al dente—firm but tender.
- Drain the macaroni using a colander and set it aside.
- Rinse quickly with warm water if desired to prevent sticking but drain well to avoid excess moisture in the cheese sauce.
Crushing the Cheez It Crackers
- Use approximately 1½ cups of Cheez It crackers crushed to a medium-fine texture.
- Place the crackers in a large zip-top bag or mixing bowl.
- Using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan, gently crush the crackers.
- Aim for a texture that is not too powdery; some small chunks will add delightful crunch to the dish.
- Set aside half of these crushed crackers for mixing into the mac and cheese and reserve the other half for a crispy topping.
Grating Cheese (if using fresh cheese)
- If using fresh block sharp cheddar cheese, grate 2 cups finely for smooth melting.
- A box grater or food processor fitted with a grating attachment works best for evenly sized shreds.
- Grate Parmesan cheese separately if your recipe calls for it, typically ¼ cup for added depth.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better and blends smoother compared to pre-shredded varieties, enhancing the creaminess of our Cheez It Mac and Cheese.
| Prep Step | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow Macaroni | 2 cups | Cook 7-8 minutes until al dente |
| Cheez It Crackers | 1½ cups (crushed) | Medium-fine texture, half for topping |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups (grated) | Use fresh block for best melting |
| Parmesan Cheese (optional) | ¼ cup (grated) | Adds depth and nuttiness |
Cheese Sauce Preparation
Creating the perfect Cheese Sauce is essential to achieving that rich creamy base that defines our Cheez It Mac and Cheese. Let’s break down the steps to craft a smooth velvety sauce that clings perfectly to every macaroni piece.
Making the Roux
We start by building the foundation with a roux, which thickens our sauce beautifully.
- Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat in a medium saucepan.
- Once the butter has fully melted and is bubbling gently but not browned, whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
- Stir the mixture continuously for about 2 minutes until the roux turns a pale golden color and develops a slightly nutty aroma—this step cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Keep the heat medium to avoid browning the roux too much, which can affect the sauce flavor.
Adding Milk and Cheese
Next, we transform our roux into cheese sauce by adding milk and cheese carefully:
- Gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk, adding it slowly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to thicken.
- Cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it reaches a thick creamy consistency—this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes.
- Lower the heat to prevent scorching, then stir in the grated 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese gradually, allowing each handful to melt fully before adding the next.
- Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to season.
- Optionally, mix in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to add extra depth and umami.
- Stir continuously until the cheese sauce is smooth, glossy, and fully combined.
Combining Sauce with Pasta
We bring it all together to create our signature dish:
- Add the drained 2 cups of cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce.
- Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every pasta piece is coated with rich cheesy goodness.
- Then fold in 3/4 cup of crushed Cheez It crackers to infuse that iconic crunch and sharp flavor right inside the mac and cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to your preferred serving dish or baking dish if you want to add an additional crisp topping.
- Finally sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup crushed Cheez It crackers evenly over the top for a tantalizing golden crust.
| Step | Ingredients/Amounts | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roux | 4 tbsp butter, 4 tbsp flour | Cook 2 min till pale golden |
| Adding Milk & Cheese | 3 cups whole milk, 2 cups sharp cheddar, 1/4 cup Parmesan | Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper |
| Combining with Pasta | 2 cups elbow macaroni, 1½ cups crushed Cheez It crackers | 3/4 cup mixed in, 3/4 cup as topping |
Our Cheez It Mac And Cheese sauce preparation ensures a luscious creamy texture perfectly complemented by that bold sharpness of cheddar and the satisfying crunch of Cheez It crackers in every bite.
Assembling the Dish
Now that we have prepared all the components, it’s time to bring everything together. This step transforms our ingredients into the iconic Cheez It Mac and Cheese with its signature creamy texture and irresistible crunch.
Mixing Pasta with Cheese Sauce
First, we combine the perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with our rich, velvety cheese sauce. Follow these steps to ensure every noodle is enveloped in flavor:
- Place the drained pasta into a large mixing bowl or the pot used for cooking.
- Pour the warm cheese sauce over the macaroni.
- Gently fold the pasta and sauce together using a spatula or large spoon. Use slow strokes to avoid breaking the noodles.
- Stir until each piece of pasta is evenly coated with the thick, cheesy sauce. The sauce should cling to the macaroni, creating a gooey and indulgent base.
This step is critical to lock in the creaminess that defines our Cheez It Mac and Cheese.
Adding Crushed Cheez It Cracker Topping
Next, we add that essential crunchy layer of crushed Cheez It crackers to elevate the texture and flavor:
- Take half of the crushed Cheez It crackers we prepped earlier.
- Gently fold half into the mac and cheese mixture to incorporate that sharp cheesy bite throughout.
- Transfer the mixture into your chosen baking dish or serving bowl.
- Sprinkle the remaining crushed Cheez Its evenly over the top to form a golden, crispy crust when baked or broiled.
Pro Tip: For an extra-crispy topping, lightly drizzle a teaspoon of melted butter over the crackers before baking.
This final touch perfectly balances the creamy interior with a bold, crunchy finish—making this Cheez It Mac and Cheese truly unforgettable.
| Step | Action | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Pasta & Cheese Sauce | Fold sauce gently into cooked elbow macaroni | Creamy and fully coated pasta |
| Adding Crushed Cheez It | Fold half inside, sprinkle other half on top | Crunchy, cheesy texture contrast |
| Optional Butter Drizzle | Drizzle melted butter on topping | Enhanced crispiness and flavor |
Baking Instructions
To elevate our Cheez It Mac and Cheese to perfection, baking is key. This step melts the cheese thoroughly, enhances the flavors, and crisps the famous Cheez It topping to golden excellence.
Oven Temperature and Time
We preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the dish cooks evenly without drying out. Baking at this moderate temperature allows the cheese sauce to bubble gently while the top crisps to a delightful texture.
Place the assembled mac and cheese into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. During this time, the cheese melds with the pasta and the Cheez It topping browns to a satisfying crunch.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | – | Ensure even cooking |
| Bake mac and cheese | 350°F (175°C) | 25-30 minutes | Bake uncovered for crispy topping |
Once baking time is complete, let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to settle.
Tips for Achieving a Crispy Top
To get that iconic Cheez It crunch on top of our mac and cheese, we recommend these pro tips:
- Use half of the crushed Cheez It crackers for layering inside the dish and reserve the other half for topping. This ensures the crunchy texture powers both the interior and surface.
- Drizzle melted butter over the Cheez It topping before baking. This golden addition promotes browning and adds richness.
- If you want an even crunchier finish, broil the top for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
By following these baking instructions, our Cheez It Mac and Cheese achieves an irresistible harmony of creamy tenderness and crunchy boldness – a crowd-pleasing dish that delights every bite.
Serving Suggestions
To make our Cheez It Mac and Cheese experience even more memorable we suggest pairing it with these complementary options and serving tips that amplify the bold cheesy flavor and crunchy texture.
Perfect Pairings
We love serving this dish alongside fresh and flavorful sides that balance its richness:
- Crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the creamy cheese sauce.
- Steamed or roasted broccoli adds vibrant color and a slight bitterness that contrasts the dish.
- Sweet and smoky barbecue pulled pork or grilled chicken make a hearty protein addition.
- Tangy pickles or a simple cucumber salad provide a refreshing crunch.
Garnishing Ideas
Elevate the presentation and flavor complexity with these garnishes:
| Garnish | Flavor & Texture Benefit |
|---|---|
| Fresh chopped chives | Bright oniony notes and color contrast |
| Crumbled crispy bacon | Smoky savory crunch complementing Cheez It |
| Drizzle of hot sauce | Adds a spicy kick balancing creamy richness |
| Shaved Parmesan | Extra sharp cheese depth on top |
Serving Tips
- Serve hot and fresh: The signature crunch of the Cheez It topping is best enjoyed immediately after baking or broiling.
- Portion size: Plan for about 1 to 1.5 cups per person as a main or 3/4 cup as a side.
- Family-style plating: Use a warm casserole dish at the center of the table and let everyone scoop their own helping.
- Make ahead and reheat: Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until bubbling and crisp.
“The creamy, cheesy layers paired with the bold, crunchy Cheez It topping create a textural symphony that shines even brighter with the right serving accompaniments.”
By following these Serving Suggestions we maximize the enjoyment of this classic comfort food with a fun twist — making our Cheez It Mac and Cheese a perfect pick for any meal or gathering.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Cheez It Mac and Cheese at its best, mastering make-ahead and storage techniques is essential. Here’s how we ensure every serving retains its creamy texture and crunchy top.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the mac and cheese completely following the recipe instructions, including baking with the Cheez It topping.
- Allow the dish to cool at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before storing. This prevents condensation that can make the topping soggy.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to preserve moisture and flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before reheating.
Freezing Instructions
- For longer storage, freeze the fully assembled and baked mac and cheese.
- Use an airtight freezer-safe container or wrap the dish in foil and then plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Freeze for up to 2 months without compromising texture or flavor.
Reheating Tips
To maintain the creamy and crunchy contrast, follow these steps:
| Method | Instructions | Temperature & Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Preheat the oven. Reheat the mac and cheese covered for moisture retention, then uncover to crisp the topping. | 350°F for 20 minutes covered, then 5-7 minutes uncovered |
| Microwave | Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to keep moisture, reheat in short intervals stirring in between. | Medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through |
| Stovetop | Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently to avoid burning; add a splash of milk if dry. | Low heat for 5-7 minutes |
Key Storage Reminders
- Do not freeze mac and cheese with a raw Cheez It topping, as it won’t crisp properly after thawing.
- Before reheating, allow frozen mac and cheese to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for even warming.
- Add a few extra crushed Cheez Its and a drizzle of melted butter on top before reheating to refresh the crunchiness.
By following these storage and reheating best practices, we keep our Cheez It Mac and Cheese tasting freshly made every time. This ensures we have a ready supply of this beloved comfort food without sacrificing quality.
Conclusion
This Cheez It Mac and Cheese recipe brings together the best of creamy comfort and crunchy excitement in every bite. It’s a simple way to elevate a classic dish with bold flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
With easy prep, straightforward steps, and versatile serving options, it fits perfectly into any meal plan. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cheez It Mac and Cheese different from traditional mac and cheese?
Cheez It Mac and Cheese adds crushed Cheez It crackers for a crunchy texture and bold, cheesy flavor, giving the classic dish a fun, nostalgic twist.
What are the main ingredients needed for Cheez It Mac and Cheese?
Key ingredients include elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, crushed Cheez It crackers, butter, flour, whole milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika and Parmesan cheese.
What equipment do I need to make Cheez It Mac and Cheese?
You’ll need a large pot, colander, medium saucepan, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowl, and optionally a baking dish for baking.
How do I prepare the Cheez It crackers for the recipe?
Crush 1½ cups of Cheez It crackers to a medium-fine texture, reserving half for mixing into the mac and cheese and half for topping.
How is the cheese sauce for Cheez It Mac and Cheese made?
Make a roux with butter and flour, gradually whisk in milk, then add sharp cheddar and optional Parmesan cheese. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to finish.
Can I bake the Cheez It Mac and Cheese?
Yes, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, using half the crushed Cheez Its inside and half sprinkled on top, optionally drizzled with butter for crispiness.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Cheez It Mac and Cheese?
Pair it with fresh garden salad, steamed broccoli, barbecue pulled pork, grilled chicken, or garnish with chives, bacon, hot sauce, or Parmesan cheese.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or stovetop to maintain creaminess and crunchy topping; freezing is also an option with proper thawing.